Hyderabad FC vs ATK Mohun Bagan: Who won yesterday's ISL 2021-22 match?
Hyderabad FC beat ATK Mohun Bagan 3-1 in their first leg semi-final clash in the Indian Super League (ISL) at the Athletic Stadium in Bambolim on Saturday.
The Nizams had never beaten the Mariners in this competition. Their last meeting ended in favor of the Kolkata giants. However, this tie posed a different outcome for the two teams who could have lifted the ISL Shield but missed out on it against Jamshedpur FC. The ISL trophy now seems like a good way to end the season for both teams.
The match started with ATK Mohun Bagan controlling the possession and thereby controlling the game. Roy Krishna was deployed on the right flank for the first time and it quickly paid off for manager Juan Ferrando.
Most full-backs understand that while defending against Liston Colaco, it is wise not to let him cut inside. Hyderabad FC's Nim Dorjee had the same job. But this time, the left-winger took a touch to his left and whipped in a cross. Krishna arrived on the ball before Akash Mishra and scored past Laxikant Kattimani.
The Mariners looked far more convincing and comfortable while in possession. They circulated the ball all around the field while their opposite numbers could only watch.
However, Manolo Marquez's side do have tricksters who could turn this game around. Aniket Jadhav darted into the opposition's half with some clever footwork and pace but could not get past the final line of defense.
Hyderabad FC did manage to get back to level terms seconds before the half-time whistle though. Mohammad Yasir's corner was not dealt with properly by the Mariners defense. The ball fell to Aniket Jadhav, whose volley was blocked. Juanan did enough to lift the ball and Bartholomew Ogbeche headed it unmarked.
Hyderabad FC own the first leg against ATK Mohun Bagan
Juan Ferrando took off Lenny Rodrigues and David Williams at the start of the second half. They were replaced by Carl McHugh and Manvir Singh. Lenny's substitution looked odd given his performance in the first half.
The Nizams added a second goal midway through the second half. Ogbeche received the ball in midfield as ATK Mohun Bagan's Tiri and Sandesh Jhingan clashed in an attempt to clear the ball. Mohammad Yasir picked up the loose ball and shot with his left foot to score, taking the game away from the Mariners.
Yasir turned provider for his side's third goal as his corner was found by Javier Siverio. The Spaniard did well to head it past the keeper.
ATK Mohun Bagan had a few more openings on goal but the side weren't able to take advantage of those situations. The first one being Liston's half-chance that was dealt properly by Kattimani. Joni Kauko had the second opportunity come his way but the Finnish international failed to make a mark.
The scoreline remained 3-1 after 90 minutes and the Mariners will face a tough task getting back in the second leg.